Sydney-based outfit The Soul Movers are set to bring their infectious grooves to the Central West this week, combining the talents of a charismatic frontwoman, a tight rhythm section and an ex-Wiggle.
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The Soul Movers was formed by lead vocalist Lizzie Mack and Deniz Tek [Radio Birdman] in 2008, with former Red Wiggle Murray Cook joining the line-up in 2015 on guitar.
Cook, who was born in Cowra and grew up in Orange, is excited to bring the group to the Central West for the first time.
"There's a lot happening with music out in regional areas, and we're eager to meet people in Bathurst and Orange who appreciate soulful sounds," he said.
The Soul Movers are set to appear in the Central West as part of a regional tour to promote their third studio album, Bona Fide, which was released in March.
Recorded in a number of iconic American studios, including Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama and Sun Studio in Tennessee, Bona Fide explores The Soul Movers' deep appreciation for Americana and the development of pop music.
Mack, who is the chief lyricist of the band, said the album deals with the parallels between Australia and America's respective histories.
"For much of the 1960s, Australia was an outpost for California through a shared love of cars, fashion, and bands such as The Mamas and the Papas and The Beach Boys," she said.
"There was also the issue of racial inequality, with Indigenous Australians and African-Americans facing a similar battle for civil rights."
The theme of civil rights is prevalent in 'Deep in the South,' the latest single off Bona Fide, which was released last month.
Cook said the music on Bona Fide incorporates a variety of elements into the group's soul leanings.
"We wanted to forge an emotional connection with people through a raw and powerful sound," he said.
"The songs are easy to tap your toes to, but they also make you feel and think."
Alongside Mack and Cook, the group features Andy Newman on bass, Marco Simec on keyboards and Stu Wilson on drums.
"Wilson's also a member of The New Christs with [Radio Birdman vocalist] Rob Younger, and he provides a harder edge to our sound," Mack said.
"Simec has been with us just over a year, and he's brought an enhanced soul sensibility to the table," Cook added.
While Cook's days as a Wiggle are behind him, he said The Soul Movers share the same penchant for crowd engagement.
"There's a lot of songs involving singalongs and dance so in that sense, it's not to dissimilar," he said.
Local eco-punk band 10th Man will support The Soul Movers for their Bathurst show.
The Soul Movers will perform at The Victoria Bathurst on Friday, September 6 and The Agrestic Grocer in Orange on Saturday, September 7.
Click here for Bathurst gig information
Click here Orange gig information